sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brown, reddish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic texture with visible sand grains; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Tan, brown, reddish
- Luster
- Dull/Earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Tan, brown, reddish; Luster: Dull/Earthy; Crystal Structure: Clastic texture with visible sand grains; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, typically through wind or water action in deserts, riverbeds, and ocean basins.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction as a building stone, masonry, and flagging. Also used as a reservoir rock for oil and natural gas.
Geological facts
Sandstone accounts for roughly 20 to 25 percent of all sedimentary rocks on Earth. The famous red rock formations in Sedona, Arizona and Zion National Park are composed largely of sandstone.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its gritty, sand-paper-like feel and the presence of visible grains. Common in sedimentary basins and often used as landscaping boulders.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Cone-in-cone structure (Limestone)
Cone-in-cone structure (Secondary Sedimentary Structure)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary